April 28, 2013

Hermes Paris. We are all familiar with the scarves and many covet the Birkin Bag. Classic…luxurious. But wallpaper? This wall covering, OP, from the Hermes archives could not be any more simplequietmodern. A design inspiration since the 1950’s , now might be the time to let it inspire you. As a background to support some classic mid-century furniture or used as a surprising detail lining the interior of your closet or the drawers of a modern chest, this elegant pattern of stacked Hs is sure to satisfy your modernist bent.

April 25, 2013

three , plus the simplest vinaigrette. Celery Salad . Unbelievably simple…just celery, dates and almonds…tossed with a basic lemon/olive oil vinaigrette. Green, fresh, crunchy, tart and sweet…it covers a lot of bases and it is so simple it almost begs for an alteration if the need should arise. No almonds? How about hazelnuts. Dried cherries or raisins instead of the dates?…why not? Even the addition of some crumbled blue cheese would be a welcome addition here. And, it’s as easy to make a single serving as to adjust the amounts up if you’re serving a group.

April 22, 2013

Well, that was the thinking of Richard Schultz when he designed the Petal Table in 1966. As a request by Florence Knoll to fill the void for quality outdoor furniture, the Petal series was created to compliment the chairs of another Knoll luminary, Harry Bertoia. Looking as if they were inspired by the daisy, a strong 60’s iconic image, these tables were actually inspired by the Queen Anne’s Lace that spotted the Pennsylvania countryside near Schultz’s home. Still available after near 50 years the Petal table is available in a dining, cocktail and occasional version and finishes are all white or a white base with teak petals. So, as you start thinking about your Spring planting you might consider adding one of these perennials to the mix.

April 10, 2013

“The best time to plant a tree was always 20 years ago. The second best time is always today.” *

So, what’ll it be? Something flowery or something evergreen? A treat for yourself or a living memorial for all to enjoy? Now that the nurseries and garden centers are stocking up for the season there is no excuse for not finding the perfect specimen and getting it seated so that Mother nature can water it in over the next few wet weeks.

April 7, 2013

You can smell it. Spring …the Earth waking up.Time for a big stretch and to clear out Winter’s congestion…first in your environment which will precipitate a release of your physical congestion. It’s time for some fresh air…a fresh approach…a fresh project…a fresh outlook.

April 4, 2013

Deep green color…great ruffled texture…amazing versatility and ,wait for it, good for you. Who knew this powerhouse of the leafy greens possessed an unending list of benefits… vitamins and minerals, anti-inflammatory properties, Omega 3’s…and on. If you haven’t been cooking with Kale, start with something simple like this Lemony Kale Salad. The ingredient list is shorter than short…Kale, shaved Parm and Hazelnuts…and the dressing is a simplequietmodern basic…lemon juice and olive oil. You can’t beat it for keeping on track with your New Year’s resolutions to eat healthier, look better, live longer.